Essential Travel Apps to Simplify Your Next Vacation

While you might be skilled at packing your suitcase efficiently for any trip, consider your smartphone or tablet as an essential carry-on filled with apps that can enhance your travel experience—from entertainment to navigation and security.

The concept of a 'super app'—a single platform that covers all travel needs—remains unrealized. In the meantime, travelers can benefit from downloading a selection of specialized apps that address different aspects of their journey.

Security and Privacy on the Go

Public Wi-Fi networks found in places like cafes or hotels often lack robust security, putting your sensitive information at risk. To protect passwords, credit card details, and emails from being intercepted, encrypting your internet activity is essential. Virtual private networks (VPNs) such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN offer encryption services, typically costing around $13 per month for a monthly subscription or about half that for annual plans. More affordable options like Mullvad are available for approximately $5.50 per month.

Instead of saving photos of important documents such as passports, health insurance cards, or prescriptions on your phone—where they may be vulnerable—use secure apps that encrypt this data. Options include 1Password, which starts at $35.88 annually, and Microsoft OneDrive Personal Vault, available with a Microsoft 365 subscription or offering limited free storage for non-subscribers.

Navigating Your Destination

For U.S. citizens and certain eligible travelers, the free Mobile Passport Control app streamlines immigration and customs procedures by allowing users to scan their passport and upload a selfie within four hours of arrival. This pre-registration accelerates processing at entry points.

When it comes to public transit, apps like Moovit and Citymapper provide comprehensive route details, fare information, and estimated travel times that often surpass standard map services. Both offer free versions supported by ads, with ad-free premium plans available at reasonable annual rates. In major cities such as New York and London, loading a credit or debit card into your digital wallet and enabling transit payment options allows for quick, contactless entry through turnstiles, helping you avoid queues.